Madagascar

Madagascar Travel Guide

The fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar is
world famous for its unique wildlife, diverse fauna and flora, and
melting pot of cultures. Situated just off the east coast of
Africa, Madagascar is distinct from its African neighbour. The
Malagasy culture is an interesting mix of Indonesian, French and
Southern African. All these influences can be seen in the island's
architecture, food, and music.

Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot, being home to
thousands of species of plant and animal life of which about 90
percent cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. Tourists and
scientists alike come to the island to see the 103 different
species of lemur, as well as the dwarf chameleons, tomato frogs,
fossa, and hedgehog-like tenrecs. The country's isolation has also
enabled the development of plants into remarkable shapes, like the
swollen Baobab, and the spiny forests. Wilderness areas such as
Isalo National Park and Tsingy Nature Reserve allow visitors to
explore Madagascar's exotic fauna, flora, and striking geological
features.

Madagascar has its share of beautiful beaches and
coral reefs, such as those found on the cluster of islands off the
northeast coast. Best known is Nossi Bé, while Ile Ste-Marie off
the east coast, and Toliara in the south, are also major
attractions for divers, snorkelers, and sunbathers. The bustling
capital of Antananarivo, or 'Tana', has a distinctly French flavour
and is an excellent place to shop for Malagasy arts and crafts.
Holiday makers searching for an off the beaten track experience
will revel in all that Madagascar has to offer.